Second: Containers, baskets, boxes (pretty ones), bins, and so forth ... are your friends. But, they must have a purpose. Don't just get a box, bin, basket, or container, and throw stuff in it. It needs a name, a label, and a home. Everything must have a home. We somehow always have a lot of little stuff lying around: papers, pens, tools, toys, business cards, keys, clothes, shoes, more papers ... you get my drift. And, before you know it, the entry way, the kitchen counter, the dinning room table, the floor, its all covered in clutter. The first step in organizing it all, is to find everything a home, in an appropriate container.
Third: You will never stay organized without a system. And, everyone's system is different; you will need to find what works best for you and your family. What do you do when you walk in the door? Where do you put the mail, the keys, your bags? How do you deal with your mail and the bills? Where does the laundry go when its dirty, clean? Where do the toys go when they are done being played with? These are the types of questions you ask yourself and the other people that live in your home. Make sure everyone understands the system, young and old. Make labels or pictures to help make it easier to remember, even a home manual or chart can be helpful for reference. And then - here is the important part - tweak it, change it, or remove it if the system doesn't work. Remember, organization is a process, not a one time destination.
And, remember sometimes we all need a little help. If you need help organizing your space, or figuring out a system that works for you - don't hesitate to ask a professional.
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